Something Quick to Prepare for the Party: Custard and Fruit Trifle

You've been asked to bring something to the party. Normally, you would grab a nice bottle of wine or make your crowd-pleasing spicy guacamole, but instead, you've been handed the daunting task of the final course. And, in the dead heat of summer, whether the party be dinner, cocktail, or pool, you must pick your dog-day dessert wisely. You may not have asked for this assignment, but it's yours to bear.

Nobody wants molten chocolate cake in the middle of July, and you can't be the asshole who brings fruit salad or Jell-O. Think of your audience. Think of the occasion. Think of the damn heat. You want something sweet and satisfying, but with all the beers you've been drinking and ribs you've been eating, you want something simple. Something comforting but something cool. Maybe even a little colorful. (Again, remember the audience.)

For that, the answer is easy: trifle. What the hell is trifle, you ask? Cake, fruit, custard, cream. No baking required. Easy. Vaguely British. The hot older sister of the strawberry shortcake and your coup de grâce for every summertime social. Task complete.

Summer Trifle

Find a deep, wide bowl. Evenly layer the bottom with lady fingers. Top with an even layer of custard. Top with an even layer of sliced strawberries and peaches. Then the whipped cream. Repeat until you reach the top. Grab a spoon. Dig in.

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